The all-electric race series makes its debut in the Big Apple on July 15 and 16, marking the first ever time the city has hosted a two-day motorsport event.
As well as attending the Saturday race day, Sir Richard Branson will be a key panellist at a pioneering Innovation Summit held at Brooklyn’s New Lab the day before, speaking on the role of the business segment in addressing climate change.
Ahead of this, he will also be making a special appearance at one of the city’s most iconic landmarks to celebrate the inaugural Formula E race and mark the team’s arrival.
“It’s a testament to the modern world we live in that the first ever motorsport event in New York is an electric one,” said Sir Richard Branson. “In just three seasons, Formula E has helped showcase the capability of electric cars and clean energy to a truly global audience.”
He added: “I’m looking forward to attending this event and supporting the Virgin Racing team but I’ll be doing more than just watching from the sidelines; I’ll be packing my race suit and helmet just in case!”
Team Principal Alex Tai added: “Thanks to Richard, Virgin is one of the world’s most recognised and respected brands, so it’s an honour to have him support the team in New York.”
Virgin Racing, one of 10 founding outfits, has been backed by Sir Richard Branson from the outset and is now one of the leading teams in the series with four races remaining in the third season.
The New York rounds (9 and 10) of the FIA Formula E Championship take place on July 15 and 16.